Being charged with a felony in Missouri is a life-changing experience. Unlike misdemeanors, felonies carry the real possibility of years in prison, large fines, and a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and even your civil rights.

If you or someone you love is facing felony charges in Kansas City or anywhere in Missouri, knowing what to do next can make all the difference. At KC Defense Counsel, our experienced Kansas City criminal defense attorneys help people navigate these terrifying moments with skill, experience, and aggressive advocacy.

If you’re facing a felony charge in Missouri, call our conveniently located downtown Kansas City office today.

1. DON’T PANIC — BUT TAKE THE CHARGES SERIOUSLY

A felony charge is serious business. Even a first-time offender can face years behind bars, probation restrictions, and lifelong stigma.

But panicking won’t help. The most important thing is to stay calm and make smart decisions from the start.

2. DON’T TALK TO THE POLICE WITHOUT AN EXPERIENCED KANSAS CITY DEFENSE LAWYER

This is critical. You have a right to remain silent. Use it.

Police and investigators will often:

Say they “just want your side of the story”
Promise leniency if you talk
Act like they’re on your side

They’re not. Their goal is to build a case against you.

Politely say:

“I want to remain silent. I want a lawyer.”

And say nothing else until your attorney is with you.

3. HIRE AN EXPERIENCED MISSOURI FELONY DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Felony cases are not DIY projects. Missouri’s criminal laws are complex. Prosecutors often push for the harshest penalties possible, especially for violent crimes, drug trafficking, or repeat offenses.

A good criminal defense lawyer will:

Investigate the facts
Challenge the evidence
Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or probation
Fight for dismissal or acquittal in court

At KC Defense Counsel, we know the judges, prosecutors, and procedures in Kansas City and throughout Missouri. We use that knowledge to build the strongest defense possible.

4. UNDERSTAND THE CHARGES AND PENALTIES

Missouri felonies are categorized by class:

Class A Felony: 10–30 years or life in prison
Class B Felony: 5–15 years
Class C Felony: 3–10 years
Class D Felony: up to 7 years
Class E Felony: up to 4 years

Your lawyer should explain exactly what you’re facing, including fines, probation options, and potential collateral consequences (like loss of gun rights or employment issues).

5. SHOW UP FOR EVERY COURT DATE

Failing to appear in court will make things worse. You could face:

A bench warrant for your arrest
Additional charges for failure to appear
Loss of any bail you posted

Your lawyer will tell you when and where to appear and will often appear for you when allowed.

6. DON’T VIOLATE BOND CONDITIONS

If you’re released on bond, follow every condition set by the court:

Don’t leave the state without permission
Avoid contact with victims or witnesses
Stay out of legal trouble

Violating bond terms can get you immediately jailed and make prosecutors less willing to negotiate.

7. COMMUNICATE HONESTLY WITH YOUR LAWYER

Your defense attorney needs to know everything, even the bad parts. Attorney–client privilege protects your conversations.

The more your lawyer knows, the better they can:

Prepare defenses
Negotiate plea deals
Challenge the state’s evidence

CALL THE FELONLY DEFENSE LAWYERS AT KC DEFENSE COUNSEL

Being charged with a felony in Missouri is frightening. But you have rights. And with the right lawyer, you can fight back.

If you’re facing felony charges in Kansas City or anywhere in Missouri, call KC Defense Counsel for a free consultation.

Our trusted and affordable Missouri criminal defense attorneys can explain your charges, protect your rights, and build the best defense possible—so you can protect your future.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland, Drexel, Fairview, Ferrelview, Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview, Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill, Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy, Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact us if your ticket is not on this list so our experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyers near me in Missouri can be of assistance.

CALL THE FELONLY DEFENSE LAWYERS AT KC DEFENSE COUNSEL

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